The document specifying cooperation principles between the Ministry and Comunità di Sant’Egidio was signed on 10 October 2019 by Minister of Foreign Affairs Jacek Czaputowicz and Secretary General of the Community Cesare Zucconi. As Minister Czaputowicz highlighted in his speech, many countries and international organisations have granted warrantees and diplomatic privileges to the Community’s personnel and offices. – I am glad that Poland joins these countries today – said minister, pointing out that according to the agreement’s provisions, both parties will develop cooperation to support people living in crisis areas throughout the world, with special attention to assistance and solidarity project management.

Referring to activities of Comunita di Sant’Egidio which was founded in 1968, Minister Czaputowicz stressed that it is active in many places of the world, also those affected by crises, which are often not easily accessible for public institutions or non-governmental organisations.

Minister of Foreign Affairs also underlined that issues related to humanitarian aid, which constituted a subject of the signed agreement, are among priorities of Poland’s non-permanent membership in the UN Security Council. In this context, the minister highlighted our country’s role as an organiser of the UN meetings on religious minorities, stressing especially the initiative of establishing the International Day Commemorating the Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief, celebrated on 22 August. The minister also informed that Poland is a candidate for the Human Rights Council for the 2020-2022 term, where it will strive for the protection of rights of the marginalised, particularly children, religious minorities and people affected by armed conflicts.

 

MFA Press Office

Photo: Tymon Markowski/MFA